Dr. Elmer Edwin Kirsch, 96, a retired college administrator, who devoted his life to Assemblies of God higher education, stepped into heaven March 10, 2023.

Born in Gillett, Wisconsin on March 5, 1927 to Paul and Mathilda Kirsch, he married Alice Wood in 1951. Together they had two sons, Norman Lee and William Alan. Elmer was ordained by the Assemblies of God in 1955 and has been a long-time member of Central Assembly, Springfield.

Elmer’s academic career began in 1961 at Bethany Bible College in Santa Cruz, California, where he served as a teacher and administrator. At Central Bible College, Springfield, Missouri, he served as Vice President of Academics until his retirement in 1997. He served these colleges for a total of 36 years.

Prior to his academic career, Elmer served as pastor in Whitewater, Wisconsin. He earned his BA degree at Taylor University in Indiana, His MA at the University of Toledo in Ohio, and his EdD at the University of Southern California,

A man of great faith, Elmer had quiet strength and uncommon integrity. His diverse interests were reflected in his hobbies of woodworking, art, hunting, and reading. He spent time in nature and enjoyed traveling. Mission trips took him to Singapore, and Alaska.

Elmer was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, a niece, and 3 brothers-in-law. Survivors include Alice, his wife of 71 years, two sons, Norman (Debbie), and Bill (Judy); 5 grandchildren, Eddie (Cortni), Tina (Chris) Drozdowski, Scott, Megan (Corey) Charle’, and Matthew (Grace); and 7 great-grandchildren, all of the Springfield area; in-laws, nieces and nephews, former students, and a host of colleagues.

Even though Elmer’s time here is complete, the things he taught will live forever. A tremendous loss has been felt in his passing. A tremendous blessing has been left in his living.

Visitation will be held March 24 from 5-7 p.m. at Greenlawn East, with a celebration of life service at Central Assembly, March 25, at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dr. & Mrs. Elmer Kirsch Endowment at Evangel University; or Assemblies of God National Royal Rangers home missions (account number 700001-4B1227).